Classic New England Lobster Roll

The New England Lobster Roll is a coastal classic, perfect for summer gatherings, beachside picnics, or anytime you crave something indulgent yet refreshing. This iconic sandwich features tender lobster meat dressed in creamy mayonnaise and lemon, nestled inside a buttery, toasted bun. Ready in minutes, it's an easy yet impressive dish anyone can make at home.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

This lobster roll brings the taste of a seaside shack right to your table.

• Bursting with flavor: The lobster is the star—sweet, tender, and lightly dressed to let it shine.
• Simple and satisfying: Just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep.
• Crowd-pleasing: A showstopper for brunches, cookouts, or date nights.
• Customizable: Add herbs, skip the lettuce, or use brioche buns—make it yours.

What Is a Lobster Roll?

A lobster roll is a beloved sandwich that hails from the shores of New England, particularly Maine and Massachusetts. Traditionally served cold with mayonnaise (Maine-style) or warm with butter (Connecticut-style), this dish is now a staple of American summer cuisine. Its roots trace back to the early 20th century, when lobster was an affordable protein—hard to imagine now!

Served on a split-top hot dog bun and often paired with chips or fries, it's the epitome of coastal comfort food.

Pro Tips for the Best Lobster Roll

• Use high-quality lobster: Fresh or flash-frozen cooked lobster yields the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Fold in the lobster gently to preserve its delicate texture.
• Toast the bun well: A buttery, golden crust adds a satisfying crunch.
• Chill the filling: Brief refrigeration enhances the flavor and consistency.
• Adjust seasoning: A little lemon zest or a dash of Old Bay can elevate your roll.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Imitation Lobster?

While imitation seafood can be used in a pinch, it won’t deliver the same flavor or texture. Stick with real lobster for authentic results.

What’s the Best Bun for a Lobster Roll?

Split-top hot dog buns are traditional, but brioche buns are a tasty upgrade thanks to their slightly sweet, pillowy texture.

Can I Add Extra Ingredients Like Dill or Pickles?

Absolutely. Fresh herbs like tarragon, chives, or dill can add brightness. Some also enjoy a thin slice of pickle or a splash of hot sauce.

Should the Lobster Be Warm or Cold?

This recipe is for the classic chilled Maine-style lobster roll, but you can serve the meat warm in melted butter for a Connecticut-style twist.

Is This Dish Gluten-Free?

Not by default. To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free hot dog buns.

How to Store

Store leftover lobster salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you've already assembled the rolls, it's best to eat them right away—buns tend to get soggy over time.

To reheat buns: Warm them in a skillet with a little butter until golden and crispy.

How to Freeze

Freezing is not recommended for assembled lobster rolls, but you can freeze cooked lobster meat:

• Before mixing: Store in a freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Let thaw overnight in the fridge, then pat dry before mixing with the other ingredients.

How to Make Lobster Rolls

Step 1

Step 1

If using raw lobster, boil for 4–5 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking.

If using raw lobster, boil for 4–5 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking.

Step 2

Step 2

Remove the lobster meat from the shells. Chop into bite-sized pieces.

Remove the lobster meat from the shells. Chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3

Step 3

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, green onions, salt, and pepper.

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, green onions, salt, and pepper.

Step 4

Step 4

Gently fold the chopped lobster into the mayo mixture until just combined.

Gently fold the chopped lobster into the mayo mixture until just combined.

Step 5

Step 5

Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.

Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.

Step 6

Step 6

Toast buns until golden and crisp on the sides.

Toast buns until golden and crisp on the sides.

Step 7

Step 7

Line each bun with shredded lettuce. Spoon the lobster mixture generously on top.

Line each bun with shredded lettuce. Spoon the lobster mixture generously on top.

Step 8

Step 8

Enjoy your lobster roll fresh and chilled with chips or a pickle spear on the side.

Enjoy your lobster roll fresh and chilled with chips or a pickle spear on the side.